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Do These Things First

If you are struggling to make ends meet and keep up with your debt repayments, speaking to a Debt Counsellor can be a smart step.

But before you book that first appointment, a little preparation can go a long way. Getting organised will not only save time, it will also help you get better advice and feel more in control of your situation.

Start by getting a clear picture of your debt and your monthly finances. You can request a free credit report from a credit bureau and compare it to your latest account statements. This helps you make sure nothing is missing. At the same time, work out exactly how much money comes into your household each month and what goes out. Include all your regular expenses, even the ones you sometimes skip or delay. This gives a full and honest view of your finances.

It also helps to understand a bit about how debt review works before your meeting. Spend some time reading up so you know what to expect and what questions to ask.

You can also take time to research the Debt Counsellor you plan to speak to. Make sure they are registered with the National Credit Regulator and try to read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view of their service.

To make things easier, here are some key steps to take before your appointment:

1) Get your credit report and compare it to your statements
2) List your income and all monthly expenses
3) Learn the basics about debt review
4) Check that the Debt Counsellor is properly registered
5) Prepare a list of important questions

You may want to ask about fees, how long the process takes, what happens if your income changes, and whether debt review will affect your credit profile.

Taking these simple steps can make a big difference. You do not have to sign up right away, and you are free to speak to more than one professional before deciding. A bit of preparation helps the Debt Counsellor understand your situation properly and puts you in a stronger position to make the right decision.